Thursday, June 30, 2011

Talk a Little

Conversation is unappreciated.

I think that those long hours of visiting when I was a child were important in creating this writer. Listening to adult conversations unexposed to television and other electronic draws, has given me an appreciation of this gift that I was unknowlingly given.

Last night we had a dessert for a friend celebrating a birthday. Her husband and daughter, the age of my granddaughter, came along for cake. We talked about a variety of things, things other than the children. Heather sat patiently listening. She didn't say she was bored or ask when they were leaving. The simple dessert ran to an 11pm finale.

This morning Sydney asked about the gathering since the girls were at their Dads. I told her that Heather was here, that we just sat and talked.

"You would have been bored," I said.

"No I wouldn't," she replied. "Lucky, Heather."

Maybe we underestimate the children. Maybe we feel that when we visit, we need things to entertain the kids who are forced to listen. Maybe we are taking away the lessons that conversation teach. I know that I would not be who I am but for those hours of sitting with Aunt Alma and my other relatives. Visiting with friends who added such a richness to my life. I would have missed conversations about the neighborhood and farming. When a conversation turned to weddings, funerals, illness, I learned to care.

Now I know how to have a conversation with just about anyone. I love the learning that still comes with different opinions and interesting topics. I love the building of community that silently builds through these conversations. Friendships become stronger and many are added just with time spent talking.

Love everyone you meet. Heal a world in pain.

Women's Walk

A journey shared by all.

Join me on my other blog on Neff Road.

Care List

So what is a care list? I had called it a prayer list, but then we all have different interpretations of prayer. For me, my contact with a higher power comes from conversation that takes place all day long. It comes from planting thoughts of people in need in my mind and on my (list).

We all come from different backgrounds, different countries, different beliefs, yet we are all the same family. My heart aches when there is pain in any part of the world. We are all brothers and sisters.

I do not carry a weapon to protect me. I will not give hate or fear a voice by doing so. My heart says that we can only make a difference in this world by loving one another.

So my care list is for you. For though I may not know your language, I may not know your faith, you are part of my life journey and I am part of yours. Together may we go forward, caring for one another and embracing peace and love.